AN ENGAGING HANDBOOK

‘A smile is the most effective weapon against an adversary; it perplexes them. A smile is the best accessory for a friend; it delights them.’

- Shruti Pandit

These lines are among the many strewn throughout the Icons of Mahabharata (Book 1) — Undefeatable Krishna by Shubha Vilas. As the name suggests, the book is about Lord Krishna, without whom Mahabharata is unimaginable.

Mahabharata is an epic which resonates with most humans. As the author says in his introduction, ‘This ‘encyclopedia of human existence’ captures the entire spectrum of emotions, dilemmas, and philosophies that shape life. The verse “Yad ihaasti tad anyatra, yan nehaasti na tat kvachit” (Mahabharata 1.56.33) means “Whatever is found here can be found elsewhere, but what is not found here cannot be found anywhere.” This alone outlines the sheer magnitude of the Mahabharata, making it a timeless guide for all aspects of life.’ (sic)